PROJECT
Revi
RESPONSIBILITIES
UX Design, Project Management, Marketing
SUMMARY
I released an iOS and Android application to let people review products easier.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
When shopping online for unique items, it is difficult to synthesis information from multiple sources and make a good buying decision. Avid shoppers rely on their friends and trusted sources for product recommendations.
To help online shoppers buy unique items, a mobile application would help by letting people share their opinion on products freely.
Project Process
Because I was self funding this project, I needed a fast way to solve this problem and validate my idea before running out of money.
Research
Market Research
Before starting this project, I looked at previous apps in the market, the demand for this customer segment of avid shoppers, and looked into starting in small product niches.
Core Needs
After doing research and talking with avid shoppers, I found that most people took recommendations from their friends, looked at 2-3 places before buying, and wanted an all-in-one place to find new products.
User Interviews
I also interviewed avid online shoppers, active members of facebook shopping groups, and YouTube product reviewers to find their needs, struggles, and experiences.
Goals
Be able to review and share any product
- Gain support from YouTube influencers
- Follow people to see their reviews and recommendations
- Create an open ended product database
Validation
Sketch Mockups and Wireframes
Using Sketch, I designed the screens of this app to validate early designs with people who might use the app. I also created low-fidelity wireframes to test user flows within the app.
Beta Testing
After early prototypes were validated, I contacted various product reviewers on YouTube and hosted a Beta Test of the iOS and Android app before launching. After their feedback was gathered, I launched the app.
Results
Initial Traction
After releasing Revi on the iOS App Store and Google Play Store, Revi gained around 1,500 users within a 3 month period. Many people joined from YouTube product reviewers shouting us out and from posts in facebook product discussion groups.
Reviews Created
After looking at metrics for different key actions taken, the majority of people joining where posting a review and following others on the app. The average person on Revi followed 7 people and created 1.2 reviews which proved people understood what to do on Revi.
Remarks
High Cost
Ultimately this project failed due to high costs of outsourcing development. I learned a lot about managing software development and in the future I plan to develop the software myself. I learned a lot about managing software development and prioritizing product features throughout this process.
Product Library